FAQ for Mount Belumut

1. When is the best time to climb Mount Belumut?The best time to climb Mount Belumut is during the non-monsoon season from March to October. The incidence of rain is much higher during the monsoon season from November to February.

2. When should I book the trip?The National Park issues a limited number of climb slots (or climb permits) each day. As Mount Belumut is quite a popular climb destination, the climb slots tend to fill up pretty fast. It is recommended to book your trip 2-3 weeks in advance especially if your intended travelling date is during the holiday season.

3. What is the trail’s terrain like?There are 4 checkpoints altogether; CP1, CP2, CP3 and CP4. It takes about 45 min to an hour to hike the 2km from trailhead to CP1. The trail gets steeper from CP2 onwards and it takes about an hour to cover each of the distances from CP1 to CP2 and from CP2 to CP3. From CP3 to CP4, the trail becomes gentler and it takes about an hour to cover this 1.5km section. The last 500m from CP4 to summit which takes about 30 min to complete is undulating but relatively easy climb.

4. What is the difficulty level of the trek?Mt Belumut is a tough 8-10 hours return hike on steep slopes with some scrambling needed towards the summit. Participants need to be of good fitness level and preferably with previous mountain hiking experience (e.g. Mt Lambak, Mt Panti). Please do not underestimate the difficulty.

5. What are the training required to get myself prepared for the trek?Exercising at least twice a week, comprising of either mid-distance jogging (~5km) or stair climbing (~60 stories height) at least 1 month in advance should be sufficient to condition your body for the climb. A longer period of conditioning is required for those who are unaccustomed to physical exercise.

6. What should I do if I cannot catch up with the others during the trek?While your mountain guide will keep a watch out for everybody, you should not feel embarrass to voice out if you need help. Always stay with the group and stay on trail. Safety is of utmost importance.

7. What should I do if I am injured or feel sick during the trek?
You should stop climbing and inform the guide of your injury or sickness. The guide will assess your condition and determine the necessary course of action. For mild conditions, you may either rest at one of the checkpoints (it is a single route up and down the mountain) or descend back to the National Park HQ with your guide or climb buddy.

8. What clothes should l wear for the trek?
Dri-fit long sleeve T-shirt and pants will be useful to prevent insect bites and scratches, but it is still a personal preference as many hikers like to trek in short sleeve T-shirts and shorts.

9. What types of footwear are recommended for the trek?
A pair of covered shoes with good traction and ankle grip to protect your feet from sharp rocks. Sandals and sports shoes are not recommended. Do trim your toe nails before the hike as long nails might rub against your shoes especially when going downhill causing subungual hematoma which is also commonly known as “black toes”.

10. Do I need a trekking stick for the hike?
A hiking stick is useful for providing extra stability and traction when going uphill and reducing strain on joints when going downhill. It is a good to have but not absolutely necessary for the Belumut trek.

11. Do I need any specialized equipment for the trek?
This is a relatively straightforward trek along well defined path except towards the summit where some scrambling may be required to gain your foothold over steep terrain. Except for a good pair of covered shoes and headlight, you do not need other specialized equipment for this trek. Upon booking confirmation, a detailed packing list will be provided to help you pack for your trip.

12. How much drinking water should I carry during the trek?
You should carry at least 2-3 litres of water for the trek.

13. Are there any portable water source along the trail?There is no water source along the trail. Please ensure you carry enough water for the trek.

14. Is lunch included in the package?Lunch is not included in the package. You have to bring your own food for lunch. Recommended trail food would be something lightweight and easy-to-pack like energy bar, biscuits, nuts and raisins, fruits etc.

15. Where can I store my extra belongings/luggage which I do not wish to carry up the mountain?You may store your extra belongings/luggage in the vehicle but do not leave any valuables in the vehicle. We are not liable for any loss of belongings.

16. How many guides will be provided for the trek?
We have a maximum guide to trekker ratio of 1:8. For example, 1 guide will be provided for group size of 8 pax; 2 guides will be provided for group size of 9-16 pax etc.

17. How much tips is appropriate for the guide?
Tipping is highly encouraged especially for good services. A ballpark figure would be around 50 MYR to each guide for the whole group.

18. Are there shower facilities in the National Park?Basic shower facilities are available in the National Park, but toiletries like shower foam and shampoo are not provided.

19. What should I do if I don’t feel well after the hike?
Sore knees and aching muscles are common after the hike, rest for a few days and you should start to feel better and be back to normal. If you still feel unwell, or suffer from other ailments, please consult a doctor immediately.

20. Where can I check the weather forecast?
You can refer to weather.com.

21. Do I get a refund if the climb is cancelled by the National Park due to extreme bad weather?
For the safety of hikers, the National Park might cancel or halt the climb in the event of bad weather (heavy downpour or lightning risk). As this is considered an act of god (out of human control), no refund will be made to the clients.

20. Is travel insurance provided in the package?
Travel insurance is not included in the package. We strongly recommend you to procure your own travel insurance before embarking on the Mount Belumut trip. You may also procure travel insurance through us: http://iwannatravel.com.sg/world-nomads-travel-insurance